A Flat’s Aesthetic Features Homeowner’s “Affinity With the Old World”

Apartment Therapy Submissions
·2 min read
Bookshelves in living room with cream sofa.

Katie O’Byrne, husband, Stuart, and their two kids share this two-bedroom home: My husband and I have lived in this flat in village-y Stoke Newington, North London, for five years. In the time we’ve been here we got married and have had two babies. We love living here as a family of four. Although the flat is compact, the layout makes it practical.

Pendant lamps hung in light filled living room.

The flat takes up the ground floor of one of a row of Edwardian terraces. It has two bedrooms and a small garden, which we’ve planted full of evergreens. We’ve made various improvements to the flat, stripping the floors and putting in a new kitchen and bathroom, uncovering original features along the way!

Mirror and art prints hung above wooden dining room table.

The flat reflects our affinity with the old world and a simple way of life. I love collecting secondhand, vintage, and antique furniture pieces (a favorite is our solid oak Arts and Crafts dining table, which I got for £29!). Our books and artwork remind us of places we’ve travelled and lived.

Mirror hanging over fireplace mantel in green painted bedroom.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Period charm meets practicality!

Botanical art prints mounted above bed in green painted bedroom.

What is your favorite room and why? My favorite room is our sweet, hardworking kitchen. Every inch of the space is utilized and it’s extremely efficient. We designed the kitchen to be fully integrated, so the fridge, dishwasher, and bins are hidden and appear seamless.

White cabinets in black and white kitchen.

I love nothing better than looking out to our green garden with the smell of fresh coffee brewing in our stovetop Bialetti every morning.

Shrubs in backyard garden.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? (Include links if you have them!) Fresh flowers and lemons!

Glass shelf above pedestal sink in bathroom.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Be led by the space and character of your home. For a cohesive feel, stick to a consistent color palette, especially in a small space. Lamps and dimmable lights create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I love using organic textures like wood, glass, stoneware, linen, and of course plants.

Hand drawn floor plan of two bedroom home.

Thanks Katie!

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

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